Square Foot Gardening

How to start square foot gardening: Step-by-Step Guide

Square foot gardening is a highly efficient technique that transforms traditional planting methods by arranging plants in a grid pattern rather than in conventional rows with spaces in between. The key idea is centered on using blocks, typically three feet by three feet or four feet by four feet in size, which are then divided into one-foot squares. This precise layout not only maximizes space utilization but also boosts productivity. Through the adoption of square-foot gardening, gardeners can maintain a continuous cycle of planting and harvesting. After harvesting from a square, new seeds or seedlings are promptly planted, ensuring a steady supply of fresh crops throughout the growing season. This structured approach not only encourages sustainability but also maximizes yield within limited space boundaries. Moreover, the adaptability of square-foot gardening allows for customization according to the specific needs of different plant types. Each square can accommodate anywhere from one to sixteen plants, depending on the crop's size and growth characteristics. This flexibility enables gardeners to diversify their harvest and experiment with various vegetables, herbs, and flowers in a confined area. For individuals facing space or resource constraints, square-foot gardening provides a practical solution for cultivating a flourishing garden in a confined setting. This innovative method demonstrates that anyone can enjoy the advantages of homegrown produce, regardless of space limitations. With a touch of creativity and thoughtful planning, even the smallest spaces can be transformed into a productive square-foot garden teeming with life and abundance.

Instructions for Creating a 12x12x6 Table Top Gourmet Garden:

1. Begin by cutting one 1x6 piece of cedar wood into four sections, each measuring 12 3/4 inches in length. Assemble the four pieces to construct a box and secure them with screws. Attach ground barrier fabric to the bottom of the box to ensure proper drainage for your garden. Consider this aspect when selecting a location for your garden.

2. Fill the box with potting soil.

3. Divide the box into four equal squares by using string or yarn. For accurate results, locate the center of each side of the box, then mark the spot with a small tack. Wrap string or yarn around each tack to create four small squares.

4. In each gridded square's center, plant two seeds one inch apart and two inches deep. The choice of seeds will vary based on the type of garden you have chosen from the gourmet gardens provided below.

5. Some gardens will involve planting the same plant in two squares. For instance, in a pizza garden, you will plant two tomato plants and two pepper plants.

6. Position your garden box in a sunny area on a plastic tray. Remember that during watering, the excess water will drain through the mesh bottom.

7. If you are growing outdoors, ensure that your box is in a sunny location to allow proper drainage of water during rainfall or watering.

8. The mesh bottom serves to prevent root rot caused by water accumulation at the box's base.

9. Harvest your plants once they have reached maturity.

10. Some plants, like onions, will require replanting after harvesting.

11. For replanting, refer to the instructions provided in step 4.

Large square-foot salad garden

Types of Gardens

Pizza Garden:

• Tomato

• Red Bell Pepper

• Basil

• Oregano

Spaghetti Garden: 

• Tomato

• Red Bell Pepper

• Basil

• Oregano

Pesto Garden Plants: 

• Basil x 2

• Garlic

• Parsley

Salsa Garden:

• Jalapeno

• Tomato

• Cilantro

• Onions

Recipes

Pesto

Ingredients

• 3 cups packed fresh basil leaves

• 4 cloves garlic

• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup olive oil

• 1/4 cup pine nuts

• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

• Combine basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and nuts in the bowl of a food processor or blender.

• Blend to a smooth paste.

• Add parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information

Amount Per Serving Calories: 96 | Total Fat: 9.2g | Cholesterol: 4mg

Pesto Pizza

Ingredients

• 1 (12 inch) pre-baked pizza crust

• 1/2 cup pesto

• 1 ripe tomato, chopped

• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped

• 1/2 small onion, chopped

• 1 (4 ounce) canned artichoke hearts, drained and sliced

• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese

Directions

• Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).

• Spread pesto on pizza crust. Top with tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, artichoke hearts and feta cheese.

• Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and browned.

Nutritional Information

Amount Per Serving Calories: 394 | Total Fat: 19.9g | Cholesterol: 36mg

Salsa

Ingredients

• 4 large tomatoes, chopped

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 1 jalapeno pepper, minced

• salt to taste

Directions

• Remove the skin of the tomatoes.

• In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to taste.

• Mix well.

• Add 1/2 of the jalapeno pepper and taste. If you desire your salsa with more of a kick, add the remaining 1/2 jalapeno. If you are satisfied with the salsa's heat, do not add the remaining jalapeno pepper.

• Cover the salsa, and chill until ready to serve.

Nutritional Information

Amount Per Serving Calories: 53 | Total Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 0mg